Isle Of Man Gambling Laws To Receive An Update

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

01 March 2005

An update of the Isle of Man’s gambling laws to take account of technological advances will not result in any change to the three core principles underpinning existing legislation, believes Jane O’Rourke, the new chair of the Gambling Control Commissioners.

According to O’Rourke, whilst the jurisdiction has already got a good system of regulation for the gambling industry, changes in the way the industry operates means there is room for improvement.

“When the legislation was drafted we were not living in an internet age, we weren’t even living in an electronic age. The legislation doesn’t reflect in many ways the means by which the industry is operated,” Ms O’Rourke observed.

“At the time some of the legislation was conceived even telephone betting wouldn’t have been thought of ... we have flagged up areas where we see there is some sort of tension or where we feel certain parts of the industry could be more appropriately regulated,” she explained.

O'Rourke emphasised that the Commissioners are keen to see the three core principles remain in updated legislation. These core principles seek to: keep the gambling industry crime free; protect the young and vulnerable; and ensure that the facilities offered by licence holders are fair and that players receive their true winnings.

The Department of Home Affairs has stated that a review of existing gambling legislation can be expected to broaden the Commissioners’ remit.

The Commissioners’ current sphere of regulation includes online or remote gambling activities in addition to public and restricted betting offices; amusement or slot machines; the casino; pools betting and lotteries.

However, Ms O’Rourke says that no date has been set for a review of the legislation.

Recommended